How hard is it to join the Foreign Service?

The search for extraordinary U.S. citizens to serve as Foreign Service Officers is intense and the qualifying process is rigorous, demanding and highly competitive. If you are interested in becoming a Foreign Service Officer (FSO), you must first register for and take the Foreign Service Officer Test (FSOT).

How many foreign service officers are hired each year?

In recent years, more than 20,000 candidates have taken the Foreign Service Officer Test annually. A much smaller number advance to the QEP review, and then only a few hundred are invited to the Oral Assessment. Please note that Foreign Service Officer hiring targets are adjusted regularly.

How hard is the Foreign Service Officer test?

The FSOT is a very challenging exam with a low pass-rate (hovering between just 30\% and 50\% of test takers). So you should not underestimate the need to study for this test. In addition to a great overview of all the subjects, it provides a straightforward and highly-effective plan for using your study time well.

Do foreign service officers choose where they go?

At this point in their careers, FSOs can settle into a niche area of foreign service and tailor their future placements to fit their unique interests and abilities. For example, some foreign service officers choose to focus the remainder of their time in the field working with a specific country or region.

Is a foreign service officer a spy?

So, let’s be clear: Foreign service officers are NOT spies. They do not work for the CIA, FBI, DIA, or anyone else in the IC (Intelligence Community). It is very likely that you’ll have some security clearance and deal with classified information as an FSO, but you are not a spy. You’re a diplomat.

How many times can you take the foreign service exam?

Is there a limit on the number of times a person can take the FSOT? There is no limit on the number of times an individual may sit for the FSOT. However, one must wait 12 months between each test.

What percentage of people pass the Foreign Service Officer Test?

The Foreign Service exam pass rate is a dismal 20\%. That means that 4 out of every 5 are destined to fail in their first step to becoming an FSO.

How long does it take to become a foreign service officer?

A safe bet is to consider the whole process, from your decision to apply to when you are offered the job, to take an average of 1.5 years. What do you do during this time? The FSO selection process consists of the: Application.

Do diplomats have Secret Service?

The United States has the responsibility under international law to protect visiting foreign dignitaries and resident foreign diplomats in this country. Resident foreign diplomats may receive protective services from the Department of State, local police authorities, or private security firms. …

Is being a foreign service officer a good job?

It is the type of job that is incredibly rewarding and allows you to serve your country and gain a lot of fabulous and interesting experiences at the same time. Just remember, there is no one specific path into the Foreign Service and diplomatic work.

What is the highest score on the foreign service exam?

A 154 is the minimum passing score on the multiple-choice portion, including Job Knowledge, English Expression, and Situation Judgment. This means that scores from 160-179 are average, 180, and above are impressive. These are all out of a maximum score of 200.

Is a diplomat the same thing as a foreign service officer?

Becoming a Foreign Service Officer (FSO) is one way to serve as an American diplomat. The mission of a U.S. diplomat in the Foreign Service is to promote peace, support prosperity, and protect American citizens while advancing the interests of the U.S. abroad.